First Responders Children's Foundation Celebrates Heroic Families at 24th Thanksgiving Parade Event
The First Responders Children's Foundation (FRCF) recently celebrated its 24th annual Thanksgiving Day Parade ceremony, honoring the families of first responders in a heartwarming event that captured the spirit of gratitude and unity. Held in New York City, the gathering saw participation from over 1,500 family members and guests of firefighters, law enforcement officers, EMS personnel, 911 dispatchers, and corrections officers, showcasing the importance of community support during such festivities.
Taking place on 40th Street in Manhattan, the Thanksgiving Celebration offered an array of activities designed to entertain and uplift the families. Attendees enjoyed a family fun zone that included toys, interactions with beloved superheroes, delicious treats, and a vibrant breakfast held at the newly opened GH on the Park. One of the highlights was an exclusive front-row viewing of the iconic Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, a cherished tradition that transformed the day into a memorable experience for all.
Founded on Thanksgiving morning 24 years ago by Al Kahn, the FRCF has consistently provided a platform for connection among those who have experienced loss due to the heroic service of first responders. The very first celebration emerged as a response to the tragedy of 9/11, serving as a light of hope for children who had lost a parent in the line of duty. Jillian Crane, the President and CEO of FRCF, poignantly remarked on the significance of the event, noting, “Nearly 150 first responders died in the line of duty this year, leaving children behind without their hero. Our goal today is to provide comfort to these families and thank all the first responders who risk their lives for our safety.”
The event was made possible by CSX, the generous presenting partner, whose commitment to supporting first responder families shines through initiatives like this one. Bryan Tucker, CSX's Vice President of Sustainability and Stakeholder Engagement, emphasized the importance of community engagement, stating, "Supporting first responder families — especially on a day rooted in gratitude — is deeply meaningful to us."
The full VIP experience included engaging activities for children, media appearances, and heartfelt recognition of first responders' families. Attendees mingled in the family fun zone that offered numerous entertainment options, including food trucks, music, engaging games, and distribution of special gifts from various partners, such as Jazwares and Starbucks.
The morning also featured a formal ceremony, which included a joint color guard presentation by representatives from the FDNY, NYPD, and Port Authority Police Department, along with speeches from distinguished figures in public service. Prominent speakers included FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker, NYPD First Deputy Commissioner Tania Kinsella, and PAPD Superintendent Edward Cetnar, each contributing reflections and support for the families present.
During this ceremony, several honors were awarded by the FRCF, acknowledging exemplary service and bravery within the community. Among the notable recognitions was the Community Hero Award awarded to Port Authority Police Officer Chee Ying Yong. Officer Yong was celebrated for her courageous actions in October when she intervened in a stabbing incident and successfully helped save a teenager's life while she was off-duty and pregnant.
Additionally, the FRCF also honored a long-standing partner, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, with the Community Partner Award, recognizing their unwavering support that makes events like this Thanksgiving ceremony possible. Special accolades were also given to FDNY Supervising Fire Marshal Robert Cashman for his contributions and leadership over 24 years dedicated to the Foundation’s mission.
The remarkable day concluded with a vibrant atmosphere filled with joy, gratitude, and togetherness as families celebrated their heroes. The event's success was attributed not only to the planning and support from multiple partners including CSX, Turken, Heath and McCauley, and Progress Rail, but also to the unwavering spirit of the first responder families who embody resilience and courage.
For more information about the First Responders Children’s Foundation and its ongoing initiatives supporting first responders and their loved ones, please visit www.1stRCF.org or connect with them on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram (@1strcf).
Taking place on 40th Street in Manhattan, the Thanksgiving Celebration offered an array of activities designed to entertain and uplift the families. Attendees enjoyed a family fun zone that included toys, interactions with beloved superheroes, delicious treats, and a vibrant breakfast held at the newly opened GH on the Park. One of the highlights was an exclusive front-row viewing of the iconic Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, a cherished tradition that transformed the day into a memorable experience for all.
Founded on Thanksgiving morning 24 years ago by Al Kahn, the FRCF has consistently provided a platform for connection among those who have experienced loss due to the heroic service of first responders. The very first celebration emerged as a response to the tragedy of 9/11, serving as a light of hope for children who had lost a parent in the line of duty. Jillian Crane, the President and CEO of FRCF, poignantly remarked on the significance of the event, noting, “Nearly 150 first responders died in the line of duty this year, leaving children behind without their hero. Our goal today is to provide comfort to these families and thank all the first responders who risk their lives for our safety.”
The event was made possible by CSX, the generous presenting partner, whose commitment to supporting first responder families shines through initiatives like this one. Bryan Tucker, CSX's Vice President of Sustainability and Stakeholder Engagement, emphasized the importance of community engagement, stating, "Supporting first responder families — especially on a day rooted in gratitude — is deeply meaningful to us."
The full VIP experience included engaging activities for children, media appearances, and heartfelt recognition of first responders' families. Attendees mingled in the family fun zone that offered numerous entertainment options, including food trucks, music, engaging games, and distribution of special gifts from various partners, such as Jazwares and Starbucks.
The morning also featured a formal ceremony, which included a joint color guard presentation by representatives from the FDNY, NYPD, and Port Authority Police Department, along with speeches from distinguished figures in public service. Prominent speakers included FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker, NYPD First Deputy Commissioner Tania Kinsella, and PAPD Superintendent Edward Cetnar, each contributing reflections and support for the families present.
During this ceremony, several honors were awarded by the FRCF, acknowledging exemplary service and bravery within the community. Among the notable recognitions was the Community Hero Award awarded to Port Authority Police Officer Chee Ying Yong. Officer Yong was celebrated for her courageous actions in October when she intervened in a stabbing incident and successfully helped save a teenager's life while she was off-duty and pregnant.
Additionally, the FRCF also honored a long-standing partner, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, with the Community Partner Award, recognizing their unwavering support that makes events like this Thanksgiving ceremony possible. Special accolades were also given to FDNY Supervising Fire Marshal Robert Cashman for his contributions and leadership over 24 years dedicated to the Foundation’s mission.
The remarkable day concluded with a vibrant atmosphere filled with joy, gratitude, and togetherness as families celebrated their heroes. The event's success was attributed not only to the planning and support from multiple partners including CSX, Turken, Heath and McCauley, and Progress Rail, but also to the unwavering spirit of the first responder families who embody resilience and courage.
For more information about the First Responders Children’s Foundation and its ongoing initiatives supporting first responders and their loved ones, please visit www.1stRCF.org or connect with them on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram (@1strcf).
Topics People & Culture）
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